I honestly don't mind being by myself for a little while, or for a whole afternoon in fact, if it means I'll have one of these chéries beside me, a little companion to drink and to hold as I sit.

A delicious hot chocolate, and served with a delicate little heart on top, it's absolutely adorable. A perfect pick-me-up this afternoon as well, as I needed a little time away from the cégep and a bit more comfort. Surrounded by a family chatting in French, who suddenly broke out into a familiar childhood song, Frère Jacques, and two friends chatting over cafés outside, this really is all I need.

It's lovely to feel comfortable on my own again, to be able to explore the main street of Rivière-du-Loup at my leisure, and to know that as I sit here enjoying a bowl of hot chocolate, I love that its served in this little bowl, there are people around taking their time this afternoon as well. Customers walk in off the street, some ordering breads and pastries to take home, while others sit down beside a drink like my own, or a plate with chocolate croissants. And to think I almost walked right past this boulangerie, tucked in a building lined with flowers along the windows, and tables set out under umbrellas.

Telling mum of where I was, and sending a photo of the drink in front of me, she replied that she was in fact doing the same thing. A three hour time difference and a five hour flight between us doesn't affect both of our need to enjoy those lovely little coffee shops not yet explored, and taste the delicious treats only noticed when we stop for a moment. Settle down, grab a chair, and take that first, calming, sip.

It's actually time I put down my phone, and watch the people walking by hand in hand, or listen to the French music playing over the speakers.

Or admire the menu of delicacies on the wall... Sandwich coco ou coco-fromage. I think I've convinced myself to come back here, at least for this hot chocolate, or with friends who can try for themselves the specialty in a real hot chocolate, and the importance in breaking off from the regular path, the regular timetable, to explore those other experiences hidden in a day.

Like the layer of rich, melted chocolate at the bottom of my bowl. I couldn't be happier at my corner table by the window, and somewhere across Canada I know mum is set out comfortably at another table with a latte in her hand, and probably marvelling at the view, or thinking of all the things wonderful about Bowen amidst packing for our move to Vancouver Island. But it's time to explore new places mumma, and with it I'll be happy to try an array of new drinks and bites, I just hope there's a cafe with some gluten free treats near where we live.